How to Protect Yourself Against Monkeypox if You are Sexually Active
Monkeypox is a zoonotic viral disease, a disease that can be transmitted from animals to humans as well as between humans, that was discovered in laboratory apes in 1958 and first identified in humans in 1970.
The main mode of transmission for monkeypox is through direct physical contact with an infectious person. Rashes, body fluids especially from skin lesions, and scabs are particularly infectious. Ulcers, lesions, and sores are also infectious due to the fact that the virus can be transmitted through saliva. Coming in contact with objects used by an infected person (such as bedding, towels, and clothing) can also cause infection. People who have the disease are contagious while they are showing symptoms; it is still unclear whether or not asymptomatic people are contagious.
Symptoms of monkeypox include fever, severe headache, muscle aches, back pain, low energy, swollen lymph nodes, and skin rashes or lesions. The rash typically begins on the first or third day of fever onset. Rashes can be seen on the face, palms of the hands, and soles of the feet. The mouth, genitals, and eyes are also locations where lesions can be found.
While anyone who comes into contact with someone with symptoms or an infected animals are at risk for infection, those who are intimate with or engage in prolonged skin to skin contact seen in activities like sex, kissing, cuddling, hugging and sharing drinks are especially at risk. To reduce your risk of contracting monkeypox, limit your contact with others if you know you have monkeypox.
While it is still unknown if monkeypox is spread through semen or vaginal fluids, avoid engaging in sexual activity, both with your partner or recreationally. Rashes can appear on the genitals and on the mouth, which can cause mouth-to-skin transmission. Cover any skin rashes or lesions to avoid skin to skin contact. Make sure to wash, clean, and disinfect any gear, toys, clothing, or bedding used when engaging in sexual activities. Try to avoid places where skin to skin contact may be expected due to minimal to no clothing such as tightly packed clubs or raves, back rooms, saunas, and sex clubs.
Those who are infected are encouraged to self-isolate and, if possible, cover any breaks in the skin. Wearing a face mask when in proximity with someone infected, especially if they are coughing or have mouth sores and when touching the bedding or clothing of an infected person. Wash your hands frequently, especially after coming in contact with someone infected or their belongings. Clean and disinfect contaminated surfaces and items and dispose of contaminated waste properly.
References:
https://news.un.org/en/story/2022/07/1123212
https://www.cdc.gov/poxvirus/monkeypox/transmission.html
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